“You’ve got the luck of the drone!”.

My Dad and his college roommate John have a special friendship. “There was excitement, energy, encouragement, passion to perform well, curiosity to explore unknowns and to share in joyful moments, laughter and song”. John called this mysterious catalyst the "Luck of the Drone”.

Some 30 odd years later while knee deep in bees, I’m reminded of this ‘Luck of the Drone' for two reasons. I feel lucky and privileged to work with such amazing and ever fascinating creatures, even when faced with many challenges. The phrase's connection to bee biology also serves as a constant reminder of my mission as a beekeeper.

Drones are male bees raised during the spring and summer months of abundance. Their purpose is to mate with the virgin queens in the area. Only a few of these drones will be lucky enough to do so. The drones of today represent the future genetic mixing potential of tomorrow.

My mission is to raise bees from rescued feral colonies adapted to the natural cycles of weather and forage of our area. Abstaining from chemical and organic treatments allows these colonies to survive and build tolerance to pests and diseases naturally. Therefore, the drones that fly from my hives are carrying forward genetics that will expand the diversity and adaptability of bees in the area.